A detailed look at language-related myths that explores both what we know and how we know it.
This textbook explores popular questions about language. Do women talk more than men? Does texting make us stupid? Accessibly written and drawing on real experiments, it trains students to become informed consumers of social science research. A broad range of topics makes the book appropriate for non-technical introductory linguistics courses.
Do women talk more than men? Does text messaging make you stupid? Can chimpanzees really talk to us? This fascinating textbook addresses a wide range of language myths, focusing on important big-picture issues such as the rule-governed nature of language or the influence of social factors on how we speak. Case studies and analysis of relevant experiments teach readers the skills to become informed consumers of social science research, while suggested open-ended exercises invite students to reflect further on what they've learned. With coverage of a broad range of topics (cognitive, social, historical), this textbook is ideal for non-technical survey courses in linguistics. Important points are illustrated with specific, memorable examples: invariant 'be' shows the rule-governed nature of African-American English; vulgar female speech in Papua New Guinea shows how beliefs about language and gender are culture-specific. Engaging and accessibly written, Kaplan's lively discussion challenges what we think we know about language.
“"In this lucid and approachable book, Kaplan debunks a variety of common misconceptions about language, and provides the reader with guidance on how language should be studied. It is an elegant achievement." Neil Smith, University College London”
'In this lucid and approachable book, Kaplan debunks a variety of common misconceptions about language, and provides the reader with guidance on how language should be studied. It is an elegant achievement.' Neil Smith, University College London
'This is one of the best books on language and linguistics that I have ever read … I highly recommend reading this book.' Joe McVeigh, … And Read All Over
Abby Kaplan is an Assistant Professor (Lecturer) in the Department of Linguistics at the University of Utah.
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